The Antarctic Treaty
When and why was the treaty formed?
The Antarctic Treaty was signed in Washington on the 1st December 1959
by the twelve countries that had been active in Antarctica during the
International Geophysical Year (IGY): Argentina, Australia, Belgium,
Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, the United
Kingdom, the United States and the USSR.
Through this agreement, the countries active in Antarctica consult on
the uses of a whole continent, with a commitment that it should not
become the scene or object of international discord.
The treaty was formed for several reasons, but one of the main
concerns of the time was that rivalry between nations claiming
territory in the Antarctic Peninsula region showed signs in the late
1940s of developing into open conflict.
Meanwhile, some nations were fearful that the district would become a
pawn in the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States of
America, both of which had significant interest in Antarctica.
There are now 45 parties involved with the Treaty. These nations meet
annually to discuss a wide variety of issues, covering such topics as
scientific cooperation, measures to protect the environment,
management of tourism and preservation of historic sites.
What is the Antarctica Treaty about?
The Treaty, which concerns the area south of 60° South latitude,
though short, is remarkably effective. Through this agreement, the
countries active in Antarctica consult on the uses of a whole
continent, with a commitment that it should not become the scene or
object of international discord. In its fourteen articles, the Treaty:
...
... middle of paper ...
...ar and the
conflict in the Falkland Islands, all those in the Antarctic
scientific community continued an uninterrupted, unbroken and peaceful
exchange of information despite the conflict.
Under the Antarctic Treaty, activities on the continent have always
remained diplomatic and non-violent, and because of this, Antarctica
can honestly be declared a “continent of peace."
As the Antarctic Treaty System matures it has become acknowledged as
one of the most successful sets of international agreements, setting
an example of diplomatic, peaceful collaboration for the rest of the
world.
As an environmental regime it is unique and distinctive - an entire
continent, which is fundamentally undisturbed, will continue to be
protected because of the cooperation and commitment of the parties
involved with the Treaty.